Understanding Crushing Plant Project Timelines
One of the most common questions our team receives is about project duration — how long will it take from contract signing to first production? The answer depends on several factors including project scope, equipment type, site conditions and whether it's a greenfield or brownfield project.
Typical Timeline Overview
Small Mobile Plant (Under 200 t/h):
- Engineering: 4-8 weeks
- Equipment Manufacturing: 8-12 weeks
- Site Preparation: 4-6 weeks
- Installation & Commissioning: 4-8 weeks
- Total: 5-9 months
Medium Stationary Plant (200-500 t/h):
- Engineering: 8-16 weeks
- Equipment Manufacturing: 12-20 weeks
- Site Preparation: 8-12 weeks
- Installation & Commissioning: 12-20 weeks
- Total: 10-18 months
Large Stationary Plant (500+ t/h):
- Engineering: 16-24 weeks
- Equipment Manufacturing: 20-30 weeks
- Site Preparation: 12-20 weeks
- Installation & Commissioning: 20-30 weeks
- Total: 15-26 months
Factors That Affect Timeline
1. Project Complexity
Simple single-line plants are faster than complex multi-stage circuits with multiple products, washing systems or specialized processing equipment.
2. Site Conditions
Greenfield sites require full infrastructure development. Brownfield expansions can leverage existing facilities but may require integration with running operations.
3. Location and Logistics
Remote locations with limited access require longer lead times for equipment delivery. Customs clearance in some countries can add weeks to equipment arrival.
4. Civil Works Scope
Projects requiring extensive concrete foundations, retaining walls or conveyor trestles add time. Projects using portable or pre-engineered structures are faster.
5. Power and Water Infrastructure
If power supply, water systems or wastewater treatment must be developed, these can extend overall timeline significantly.
Typical Crushing Plant Project Timeline
Typical Project Phases
Phase 1 — FEED Study (4-8 weeks)
- Geological and metallurgical testwork
- Process flow diagram development
- Preliminary equipment sizing
- Cost estimation
Phase 2 — Engineering (8-24 weeks)
- Detailed process design
- Equipment specification and procurement
- Structural, electrical and civil engineering
- P&ID development
Phase 3 — Equipment Manufacturing (12-30 weeks)
- Equipment fabrication
- Quality control and testing
- Factory acceptance testing
- Packing and shipping
Phase 4 — Site Construction (12-30 weeks)
- Civil works and foundations
- Structural erection
- Equipment installation
- Electrical and instrumentation installation
Phase 5 — Commissioning (4-12 weeks)
- Pre-commissioning checks
- Dry commissioning (no feed)
- Wet commissioning (with feed)
- Performance testing
- Operator training
How WSHT Can Help
WSHT offers complete project development services including feasibility studies, FEED engineering, detailed design, equipment supply, EPC delivery and commissioning support. Our experienced team can provide realistic schedule estimates based on your specific project requirements.
Contact WSHT to discuss your project timeline — our team will analyze your requirements and provide a detailed project schedule proposal.
